The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is having a substantial effect on multiple areas all over the world. Unfortunately, the healthcare system is not immune from its impact. Now, there are concerns that shortages caused by the conflict could impact dentistry – with more complex interventions like root canal treatments being affected.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is causing many issues around the world. While some of these effects – such as the emerging humanitarian crisis engulfing the country – are visible, other effects are not.
Among the areas that have been negatively impacted is the worldwide healthcare system. Unfortunately, the dental industry is also being affected by the consequences of the conflict.
Ukraine and Russia – the two countries involved in the conflict – are huge exporters of key commodities, including some items and materials that are used in healthcare.
Therefore, dental treatments are among the areas to be affected. More complex procedures like root canal treatments are likely to be the worst affected.
Commodity Issues
Towards the end of February 2022, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has been going on for several months, with the Russian offensive met by strong resistance from the Ukrainian military.
As a result, the world has been impacted enormously. There have been concerns over a potential nuclear war, record high gas prices and a range of shortages. Therefore, many industries have been impacted – including the dental industry.
Russia and Ukraine are key exporters of some commodities. For example, in this case, the key resources are Ammonium Nitrate and Natural Gas [1]. But international sanctions, transport issues and procurement struggles has led to shortages. As a result, accessing these commodities has become more difficult.
When the above commodities are refined, they can produce two gases which are vital for the healthcare system. These are Nitrous Oxide (known as Laughing Gas) and Helium [1]. Both of these are used in millions of healthcare procedures each day.
Other Healthcare shortages
The Covid-19 pandemic had disastrous effect on worldwide supply chains, causing huge shortages [2]. These shortages have now been exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine.
Since the invasion began, even more shortages have been reported. For example, baby formula, medication, and contrast dye used in diagnostic scans are among the current shortages. As a result of the contrast dye shortage, potentially life-saving scans are having to be rationed in some states – a dire situation [1].
The impact on dentistry
Nitrous Oxide is primarily used in dentistry for complex procedures or surgeries. Unfortunately, around 40% of Ammonium Nitrate – which is needed for Nitrous Oxide – comes from Russia [1].
Root canal treatments are used to treat an infection in the tooth. It involves a dentist removing infected soft tissue inside the tooth – known as the pulp [3]. Because of the invasive nature of a root canal treatment, as well its long procedure time, it can cause anxiety and concern from patients [1].
When patients are anxious, nervous or distressed, they can be offered a sedative – such as Nitrous Oxide. However, because of the shortages, less sedatives are expected to be available. This may result in less people wanting to undergo root canal treatment.
This shortage is therefore causing concern in healthcare. It is important to remember that dental clinics typically do have other sedatives available, but supplies are normally limited.
Regardless of potential shortages, dental clinics will aim to continue providing root canal and other complex treatments. This shouldn’t stop the overall goal of providing effective and efficient treatments for patients around the world.
Thinking points…
1) This article talks about root canal treatments. They aren’t pleasant procedures, but fortunately – they can normally be avoided through strong oral hygiene. As part of having a strong oral hygiene routine, you should ensure you see your dentist regularly for a check-up. If there are any problems that need addressing, your dentist will be able to spot them and suggest treatment if necessary. Therefore, this will prevent problems worsening – we recommend booking an appointment soon!
2) Maybe some of you reading this will be awaiting, or are in need of, root canal treatment. It can be tempting to avoid the dentist when you are scared ahead of a procedure. However, it is important that you go ahead and get the root canal treatment done. Unfortunately, dental problems won’t go away, and the longer you leave it for, the more damage will be done. Try to attend the appointment and if needed, discuss taking a sedative with your dentist.
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary Dental Clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings and root canals.
We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and dental implants.
It is important for oral problems to be addressed early. Any dental problems will be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting worse. If and when further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan that is suited to their needs.
The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.
Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.
We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
[1] Tahir, D. (2022). Why the war in Ukraine might make root canals more difficult. Available:https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-06-war-ukraine-root-canals-difficult.html. Last accessed: 11th June 2022.
[2] NHS. (2022). Root canal treatment. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/root-canal-treatment/. Last accessed: 10th June 2022.
[3] Cohen, J., & van der Meulen Rodgers, Y. (2020). Contributing factors to personal protective equipment shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preventive Medicine. 141 (106263). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106263.
